Officers continue 4 Es approach in third national lockdown

This week has seen the nation’s third lockdown within 12 months and today all police forces have received revised government’s regulations to enable us to enforce the restrictions placed on all of us.
 
The message is clear – Stay at home unless you have a valid reason not to be there.
 
These unprecedented times continue and we don’t underestimate the difficulties many people are facing as this pandemic worsens.
 
Our mission and purpose is clear – to encourage everyone to play their part, protect the NHS and ultimately save lives. We will continue to police our communities using the 4 Es approach by engaging, explaining, encouraging and, as a last resort, enforcement.

As before, we will concentrate our efforts in tackling illegal gatherings such as house parties and unlicensed music events and also ensuring those who should be wearing face masks are complying with that requirement. Those who do not comply can expect to be fined.
 
All information on the lockdown measures can be found here:
 
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-lockdown-stay-at-home
 
Over many months, we have worked together with local authority colleagues to make sure businesses that can be open are also following the rules.
 
ACC Claire Bell said: “We know the vast majority of local people will do their bit to follow the restrictions as they have over many months, we will be primarily policing the minority.
 
“It is so important that everyone is clear what they can and can’t do so we can keep each other safe.

“Those that flagrantly breach these restrictions can expect a fine, they are putting others' lives at risk and this is simply unacceptable. 
 
“We need to do all we can to help to prevent the further spread of the deadly virus and ultimately save lives."